Auckland and Waiheke Island

Route

Highlights

Best time of year

In three days you’ll find out why Auckland’s lifestyle is rated so highly. Depart the city for Waiheke Island on a ferry that will have you at your destination in just 35 minutes. Efficient local transport on the island makes it easy to visit vineyards, beaches and artists’ studios. Excellent restaurants are part of Waiheke’s charm.

Spend a day exploring the sights and sounds of central Auckland – from thrills and spills, to art and culture, to getting out on Auckland's sparkling harbour.

Another city escape takes you west to Auckland's wild side. Hike in the verdant Waitakere Ranges and experience the native rainforest and rugged black-sand beaches which define the west coast.

Waiheke Island

1hr

44mins

49km

31mi

Auckland is set on three beautiful harbours and dotted with 48 extinct volcanic cones. It’s regularly named one of the best places in the world to live; Lonely Planet named Auckland as one of the world's Top 10 Cities for 2014 in its 'Best in Travel' guide.

In the Hauraki Gulf, to the east of the city, there are several beautiful islands for travellers to visit. Waiheke, known as the Island of Wine, is a year-round favourite.

The ferry link between Auckland and Waiheke Island comes in two forms. Fast passenger ferries travel from Auckland’s central business district to Matiatia Bay in just 35 minutes. Vehicular ferries operate between Half Moon Bay marina in east Auckland and Kennedy Point on Waiheke.

Waiheke is a picturesque blend of vineyards and olive groves, beaches, farmland and forest. Visits to vineyards, art studios and cafes will keep you busy, or you could simply find a perfect beach and make relaxation your top priority. Wine tours make sampling the island's fare easy; check out Fullers wine on Waiheke, Ananda Tours or Waiheke Island Wine Tours.

Waiheke’s also a great place for zip lining, archery, clay pigeon shooting, sea kayaking, horse riding and golf.

There's a good choice of accommodation - from luxury retreats to backpacker hostels. Transport options include bus, taxi, rental car and scooter.